HAROLD JOHNSON NATURE RESERVE

Harold Johnson Nature reserve was proclaimed in 1967 and is 100 hectares in extent. Set on the south bank of the Thukela River, the reserve is 6 km from the river mouth on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast. Wildlife species which occur include zebra, bushbuck, impala, blue, red and grey duiker, vervet monkey, slender mongoose, white-tailed mongoose, banded mongoose and porcupine.  

 
 Birdlife is abundant with almost 200 recorded species. The reserve has an interesting variety of indigenous thornveld flora which attracts 114 recorded species of butterflies. There are also 7 km of nature walks, one of which, the "muthi" trail, provides an interesting insight into the medicinal uses of various plants used traditionally by the Zulu people. A booklet on this trail may be purchased at the office. The picnic site has a commanding view of the Thukela River. A cultural museum at the picnic site portrays the traditional dress and customs of the Zulu people. Included in the reserve are the national monuments of Fort Pearson and the Ultimatum Tree which commemorate the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. Accommodation: Two camp grounds are available with camping and limited caravanning facilities. Ablution blocks provide hot and cold water.